How to Plop Your Hair: Curly Hair Drying Method

Updated on 23/05/2025 

Curly hair can be stunning but drying it without creating frizz or losing definition can be a real challenge. That’s where hair plopping comes in, a gentle, effective technique that fits seamlessly into The Curly Girl Method. If you haven’t yet tried plopping hair as part of your curly hair drying routine, you’re missing out on a simple way to enhance your natural texture. 

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to plop your hair, the best products to use, and how long to plop hair for optimal results. 

What Is Hair Plopping?

Hair plopping is a heat-free drying method that helps curls form with better definition and less frizz. After washing and applying your styling products, you wrap your wet curls in a soft, absorbent cloth, usually a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt to encourage curl formation as your hair dries. 

Unlike rough towel-drying or diffusing, plopping cradles your curls and protects their shape during the most delicate stage of drying. 

How to Plop Curly Hair: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Wash with a Curl-Enhancing Shampoo 

Start with a gentle cleanse to prepare your curls. Try the Luscious Curl Conditioning Cleanser with Chia Seed Oil for hydrated, defined curls without stripping natural oils. 

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Step 2: Apply Your Curl Styling Products 

While your hair is still soaking wet, apply a nourishing curl cream or leave-in. The Luscious Curl Defining Butter with Kokum Butteris ideal for boosting bounce and managing frizz. 

Smooth the product over your hair using your hands or gently scrunch it into the lengths. 

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Step 3: Time to Plop

Take a hair plopping towel (or a clean cotton T-shirt) and lay it flat on a surface like a bed or chair. 

• Flip your head forward so your curls pile on top of your scalp. 

• Lower your head onto the centre of the towel. 

• Wrap the sides around your head and tie or tuck securely at the back. 

 This technique lifts the curls toward the scalp, helping them dry in their natural shape with minimal disturbance. 

Step 4: How Long to Plop Hair? 

You can plop your hair for anywhere between 10 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your hair type and schedule. If you're short on time, even a 15-minute plop can help reduce frizz and speed up the drying process. 

For tighter curls or thicker hair, leave it plopped for longer to help define the curl pattern. 

Benefits of Hair Plopping 

• Reduces frizz by avoiding friction 

• Enhances curl definition without heat 

• Speeds up drying time 

• Adds volume at the roots 

By protecting your curls during drying, hair plopping curly hair offers softer, shinier result, without the damage caused by rough towels or diffusers. 

What Is the Curly Girl Method?

The Curly Girl Method is a curl-care routine that avoids sulphates, silicones, and heat styling to keep curls healthy and defined. Hair plopping fits perfectly into this method as a gentle, no-heat way to dry and style your curls. 

FAQs About Hair Plopping 

How to dry curly hair without frizz?

Use a microfibre or cotton towel to plop hair and avoid rubbing or towel-drying. Always apply curl cream while hair is wet. 

How to plop hair? 

After applying your products, wrap wet curls into a soft towel or T-shirt on top of your head, securing it gently. Leave for 10–60 minutes. 

What is the Curly Girl Method?

A no-sulphate, no-silicone routine focused on embracing and enhancing natural curls without heat or harsh chemicals. 

How long to plop hair?

Best Products for Plopping Hair 

Ready to try plopping? Browse the full Luscious Curls Collection from Christophe Robin, designed to define, nourish, and protect your curls at every step.